Fresh off of a complete redesign, the 2016 GMC Yukon XL gets a few small tweak to keep the full-size SUV at the top of the heap.

The Yukon XL is the larger of the two Yukon models, with a 14-inch longer wheelbase and 20.4-inches of added length overall. This gives the XL a big leg up when it comes to cargo room; it offers 39.3 cubic feet behind the third row, which dwarfs the 15.3 cubic feet found in the standard Yukon. With the back two rows folded down, maximum cargo room is a cavernous 121.1 cubic feet.

The Yukon XL gets a unique front fascia compared to its cousins, the Chevrolet Tahoe and Suburban, highlighted by a large front grille adorned by the GMC logo and headlight clusters with large C-shaped LED elements. The old Yukon XL was anonymous looking and hard to distinguish from previous versions; there was no easy way to tell if your Yukon XL was from 2008 or 2014. Gone is the rounded look to the sides, replaced by a tall, vertical stance that celebrates the Yukon XL’s size rather than trying to hide it. 18-inch alloy wheels, fog lamps, a luggage rack, and heated side mirrors are standard. The upscale Denali trim gets its own set of cosmetic updates, including a mesh grille, 20-inch alloy wheels, power liftgate, and HID projector-beam headlamps. A hands-free liftgate is now standard on SLT models.

There are two available V-8 engines, one for SLE and SLT models and the larger reserved for the Denali. The base engine is new, part of GM’s new lineup of EcoTec3 engines. It is a 355-hp, 5.3-liter V-8 that makes 383 pounds-feet of torque. Denali models also get an EcoTec3 engine, a 420-hp, 6.2-liter V-8 that makes 460 pounds-feet of torque. Both are mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. The Yukon XL can tow up to 8,500 pounds with two-wheel drive, and 8,200 with four-wheel drive. The Denali checks in slightly behind that at 8,400 and 8,100 pounds respectively.

Inside, GMC’s versions of GM cars have always strived to live upmarket from their Chevrolet counterparts and the new Yukon XL is no exception. Extra attention has been paid to upgrading the materials and fit-and-finish of the latest Yukon XL, which can seat up to nine passengers with a three-row bench configuration (more common are setups which seat seven or eight). The cabin is quieter, thanks to better aerodynamics and redesigned side mirrors, which reduce wind noise. Standard equipment includes five USB ports to charge devices, HD radio, Bose premium audio, an 8-inch touch-screen with IntelliLink, Bluetooth connectivity, and tri-zone automatic climate control. Apple CarPlay has been added for 2016, which allows you to control phone functions via the Yukon XL’s infortainment system (Android Auto is coming later in 2016). Denali models add active noise cancellation, a better stereo (also from Bose), leather seating, powered/heated front and second-row seats, and navigation.

The Yukon XL also offers a lot in the way of standard safety equipment, including a rear view camera and front/rear parking sensors which are appreciated for those who have to maneuver the Yukon XL in tight spaces.

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